If you’re like me, some days you just want a meal that’s quick to put together, doesn’t require a million ingredients, and still tastes amazing.

This stuffing chicken casserole is exactly that. It’s one of those recipes I go to when I need something simple but satisfying.

Think tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce all baked into one dish. It’s filling, it’s flavorful, and best of all—it’s easy. No need for a long shopping list or complicated steps.

This casserole has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s the kind of meal that always feels like a win.

You can throw it together in no time and have a hearty dinner ready for the whole family.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish is one I can always count on to deliver great results with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and make this chicken casserole together!

Stuffing Chicken Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

For The Stuffing

• ½ loaf (about 290g) gluten-free bread, cut into small cubes
• ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup (70g) onion, finely diced
• ½ cup (60g) celery, diced (about 2 stalks)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ teaspoons poultry seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1¼ cups (300ml) gluten-free chicken broth

For The Cream Sauce

• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) gluten-free chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 5 tablespoons (40g) cornstarch

For The Filling

• ½ cup (120g) sour cream
• 3 cups (1066g) cooked and shredded chicken (use rotisserie chicken)
• 12 ounces (340g) frozen mixed vegetables

Instructions

Step 1: Prep The Bread

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Spread the bread cubes on a baking tray and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
3. Once dried, remove from the oven and set aside. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Make The Stuffing

1. Heat ¼ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and celery, cooking until softened (about 7 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, poultry seasoning, and parsley, cooking for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
5. Mix the seasoned broth with the dried bread cubes, stirring until evenly coated. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare The Cream Sauce

1. In another saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring constantly until fragrant.
3. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking to combine.
4. Slowly add the cornstarch, whisking until fully dissolved.
5. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble The Casserole

1. Rinse the frozen vegetables with warm water to remove any ice and separate clumps.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken and vegetables. Add the cream sauce and sour cream, mixing until well combined.
3. Spread this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Evenly top with the prepared stuffing.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips For Making Stuffing Chicken Casserole

To make your casserole even more delicious and easy to prepare, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Day-Old Bread: For the stuffing, slightly stale bread absorbs flavors better. If fresh bread is all you have, toast it in the oven first.
• Cut Ingredients Evenly: Dice onions, celery, and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the stuffing and sauce before assembling to make sure the seasoning is just right.
• Layer Properly: Spread the filling evenly in the baking dish to ensure every bite has a balance of chicken, vegetables, and stuffing.
• Keep It Moist: If the stuffing looks dry, drizzle a little extra chicken broth over the top before baking.

Variations For Stuffing Chicken Casserole

You can easily customize this casserole to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Swap the Meat: Replace chicken with turkey for a post-holiday meal idea.
• Go Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free sour cream, and milk alternatives for a lactose-free version.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Herb Boost: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for more depth of flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What To Serve With Stuffing Chicken Casserole?

Pair your casserole with simple sides for a balanced meal:

• Steamed green beans
• Mashed potatoes
• Garlic bread
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Cranberry sauce
• Mixed greens salad

How To Store Stuffing Chicken Casserole?

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers without losing flavor.

• In the Fridge: Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Can You Make Chicken Stuffing Casserole In The Crockpot?

Yes, you can make this dish in a crockpot, and it’s perfect for busy days!

• Preparation: Assemble the casserole as you would for the oven.
• Cooking Time: Cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
• Tips: Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or use a liner for easy cleanup. Check occasionally to ensure the stuffing doesn’t dry out; you can add a bit of broth if needed.

Should Stuffing Chicken Casserole Be Covered When Baking?

Whether or not to cover the casserole depends on the texture you want for the stuffing. Here’s what to consider:

• Cover to Retain Moisture: Covering the casserole with foil traps steam, keeping the stuffing moist and preventing it from drying out during baking. This is ideal if you prefer a softer texture.
• Uncover for a Crispy Top: If you want a golden, slightly crunchy topping, bake the casserole uncovered for at least part of the time. You can also start by baking it covered and then remove the foil for the last 15–20 minutes.

Tip: If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with foil to avoid burning.

Why Is My Stuffing Chicken Casserole Tough?

Tough stuffing in a chicken casserole can be disappointing, but it’s usually caused by a few common mistakes. Here’s how to troubleshoot and avoid it:

• Bread Was Too Dry: Dry bread absorbs all the liquid too quickly, leaving the stuffing hard. Make sure to toss the bread with enough broth before baking. If it still looks dry, add a bit more broth before putting it in the oven.
• Not Enough Liquid: The stuffing needs enough moisture to soften during cooking. Always measure the broth and add extra if needed, especially if the bread is very dense or dry.
• Overbaking: Cooking the casserole for too long or at too high a temperature can make it dry and tough. Stick to the recipe’s recommended time and check on it early.
• Crowding the Dish: If the casserole is packed too tightly, the stuffing might not bake evenly, leading to dry or tough patches. Spread the mixture evenly in the pan to allow for proper cooking.